U.S. patent application number 13/729446 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-03 for signal communication system and method for a vehicle system.
This patent application is currently assigned to GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY. The applicant listed for this patent is GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY. Invention is credited to Jared Klineman Cooper, Robert James Foy, Keith Gilbertson, Steven Andrew Kellner, David Michael Peltz, Brian William Schroeck, Eugene A. Smith.
Application Number | 20140188307 13/729446 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51018114 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140188307 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cooper; Jared Klineman ; et
al. |
July 3, 2014 |
SIGNAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A VEHICLE SYSTEM
Abstract
A communication system includes a first wireless communication
device disposed onboard a vehicle system having two or more
propulsion-generating vehicles that are mechanically interconnected
with each other. The communication system also includes a
controller configured to be disposed onboard the vehicle system and
operatively connected with the first wireless communication device
in order to control operations of the device. The controller is
configured to direct the first wireless communication device to
switch between operating in an off-board communication mode and an
onboard communication mode. When the first wireless communication
device is operating in the off-board communication mode, the device
is configured to receive remote data signals from a location that
is disposed off-board of the vehicle system. When the first
wireless communication device is operating in the onboard
communication mode, the device is configured to communicate local
data signals between the propulsion-generating vehicles of the
vehicle system.
Inventors: |
Cooper; Jared Klineman;
(Melbourne, FL) ; Foy; Robert James; (Melbourne,
FL) ; Peltz; David Michael; (Melbourne, FL) ;
Smith; Eugene A.; (Melbourne, FL) ; Kellner; Steven
Andrew; (Melbourne, FL) ; Schroeck; Brian
William; (Melbourne, FL) ; Gilbertson; Keith;
(Grain Valley, MO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY |
Schenectady |
NY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
Schenectady
NY
|
Family ID: |
51018114 |
Appl. No.: |
13/729446 |
Filed: |
December 28, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
701/2 ;
701/36 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B61C 17/12 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
701/2 ;
701/36 |
International
Class: |
B61C 17/12 20060101
B61C017/12; G06F 19/00 20060101 G06F019/00 |
Claims
1. A communication system comprising: a first wireless
communication device configured to be disposed onboard a vehicle
system having two or more propulsion-generating vehicles that are
mechanically interconnected with each other in order to travel
along a route together; and a controller configured to be disposed
onboard the vehicle system and operatively connected with the first
wireless communication device in order to control operations of the
first wireless communication device, the controller configured to
direct the first wireless communication device to switch between
operating in an off-board communication mode and operating in an
onboard communication mode, wherein, when the first wireless
communication device is operating in the off-board communication
mode, the first wireless communication device is configured to
receive remote data signals from a location that is disposed
off-board of the vehicle system and, when the first wireless
communication device is operating in the onboard communication
mode, the first wireless communication device is configured to
communicate local data signals between the propulsion-generating
vehicles of the vehicle system.
2. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the remote data
signals that are communicated from the location that is off-board
of the vehicle system are control signals, and the first wireless
communication device is configured to receive the control signals
and convey the control signals to the controller, and the
controller is configured to change one or more tractive efforts or
braking efforts of the vehicle system in response to the control
signals.
3. The communication system of claim 2, wherein the control signals
are positive train control (PTC) signals.
4. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the local data
signals that are communicated between the propulsion-generating
vehicles are control signals, and the first wireless communication
device is configured to receive the control signals and convey the
control signals to the controller, and the controller is configured
to coordinate one or more tractive efforts or braking efforts of
the two or more propulsion-generating vehicles according to the
control signals.
5. The communication system of claim 4, wherein the control signals
are distributed power (DP) signals.
6. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first wireless
communication device is configured to receive both the remote data
signals and the local data signals during a common time period, and
the controller is configured to cause the propulsion-generating
vehicles to operate according to the remote data signals or the
local data signals according to priorities assigned to the remote
data signals and the local data signals.
7. The communication system of claim 6, wherein the remote data
signals are assigned with higher priorities than the local data
signals.
8. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the controller is
configured to direct the first wireless communication device to
switch from the off-board communication mode to the onboard
communication mode after non-receipt of the remote data signals for
at least a designated time period.
9. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first wireless
communication device is a radio device.
10. The communication system of claim 1, further comprising a
second wireless communication device configured to communicate the
local data signals between the propulsion-generating vehicles of
the vehicle system so that the controller can coordinate one or
more tractive efforts or braking efforts of the
propulsion-generating vehicles with each other, the controller
configured to direct the first wireless communication device to
switch to the onboard communication mode to augment an available
bandwidth that is used to communicate the local data signals for
the vehicle system.
11. The communication system of claim 10, wherein the local data
signals include operational control signals and safety control
signals, the operational control signals used to direct the one or
more tractive efforts or braking efforts of the
propulsion-generating vehicles, the safety control signals used to
stop movement of the propulsion-generating vehicles when one or
more safety regulations are violated, and wherein the second
wireless communication device is configured to communicate the
operational control signals and the controller is configured to
direct both the first wireless communication device and the second
wireless communication device to communicate the safety control
signals when the first wireless communication device is in the
onboard mode of operation.
12. The communication system of claim 10, wherein the controller is
configured to direct the first wireless communication device to
communicate the local data signals that are larger than a threshold
data packet size when the first wireless communication device is in
the onboard mode of operation while the second wireless
communication device is configured to communicate the local data
signals that are no larger than the threshold data packet size.
13. The communication system of claim 10, wherein the controller is
configured to direct the first wireless communication device to
communicate the local data signals of a first type when the first
wireless communication device is in the onboard mode of operation
while the second wireless communication device is configured to
communicate the local data signals of a different, second type, the
first and second types of the local data signals used to control
respective different operations of the propulsion-generating
vehicles.
14. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the vehicle system
includes two or more vehicle consists with the
propulsion-generating vehicles disposed in different ones of the
vehicle consists, and the controller is configured to direct the
first wireless communication device to communicate the local data
signals between the different vehicle consists.
15. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the controller is
configured to reduce a signal intensity at which the first wireless
communication device transmits the local control signals responsive
to the first wireless communication device being switched from the
off-board communication mode to the onboard communication mode.
16. A method comprising: directing a first wireless communication
device configured to be disposed onboard a vehicle system to
operate in an off-board communication mode, the vehicle system
having two or more propulsion-generating vehicles that are
mechanically interconnected with each other in order to travel
along a route together, wherein, in the off-board communication
mode, the first wireless communication device is configured to
receive remote data signals from a location that is disposed
off-board the vehicle system; switching the first wireless
communication device from operating in the off-board communication
mode to operating in an onboard communication mode, wherein, in the
onboard communication mode, the first wireless communication device
is configured to communicate local data signals between the
propulsion-generating vehicles of the vehicle system; and
controlling movement of the vehicle system responsive to receipt of
the remote data signals and responsive to receipt of the local data
signals.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein switching the first wireless
communication device to the onboard communication mode augments an
available bandwidth that is used to communicate the local data
signals for the vehicle system.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein switching the first wireless
communication device from the off-board communication mode to the
onboard communication mode comprises reducing a signal intensity at
which the first wireless communication device transmits the local
control signals.
19. A communication system comprising: a controller configured to
be disposed onboard a vehicle system having two or more
propulsion-generating vehicles that are mechanically interconnected
with each other in order to travel along a route together, the
controller configured to operatively connect with the
propulsion-generating vehicles and a first wireless communication
device, wherein the controller is configured to direct the first
wireless communication device to switch between operating in an
off-board communication mode and operating in an onboard
communication mode, wherein, in the off-board communication mode,
the first wireless communication device is configured to receive
remote data signals from a location that is disposed off-board of
the vehicle system and, in the onboard communication mode, the
first wireless communication device is configured to communicate
local data signals between the propulsion-generating vehicles of
the vehicle system.
20. The communication system of claim 19, wherein the first
wireless communication device is configured to receive both the
remote data signals and the local data signals during a common time
period, and the controller is configured to cause the
propulsion-generating vehicles to operate according to the remote
data signals or the local data signals according to priorities
assigned to the remote data signals and the local data signals.
21. A communication system comprising: a radio deployed onboard a
first rail vehicle of a rail vehicle consist and operative in a
first mode of operation and a second mode of operation, wherein the
radio is configured when operating in the first mode of operation
to communicate at least one of voice signals and data signals
between the first rail vehicle and a location off-board the rail
vehicle consist using a first frequency bandwidth, and wherein the
radio is configured when operating in the second mode of operation
to wirelessly communicate distributed power signals from the first
rail vehicle to one or more remote rail vehicles in the rail
vehicle consist using a different, second frequency bandwidth, for
at least one of augmenting operation of other onboard wireless
devices that are configured to communicate the distributed power
signals in the rail vehicle consist or for acting in place of at
least one of the other onboard wireless devices.
22. The communication system of claim 21, wherein the radio is
configured to automatically operate in the second mode of operation
when the radio is not operating in the first mode of operation to
communicate the at least one of the voice signals or the data
signals from between the first rail vehicle and the location
off-board the rail vehicle consist.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Embodiments of the subject matter herein relate generally to
signal communication systems and methods for a vehicle system.
[0002] Some known vehicle systems include multiple vehicles
connected together so that the vehicles can travel together. Such
vehicle systems can be referred to as consists. For example, rail
vehicle consists may include two or more locomotives (or other
powered vehicles capable of self-propulsion) and one or more
railcars (incapable of self-propulsion) connected together. The
vehicles may communicate with each other locally to coordinate the
movement of the vehicle system. The vehicles may also communicate
with a remote location from the vehicle system.
[0003] The local communications between vehicles in the vehicle
system may include various signals containing messages relating to
a wide range of information, including operation, safety, status,
and confirmations, among a host of others. The potentially large
number of local communications transmitted between vehicles can
congest the available bandwidth used to transmit the signals.
Signals may get lost in the transmission, resulting in non-receipt
of the contained message. Additionally, some vehicle systems may be
configured upon non-receipt of certain communications to
automatically shut down for safety reasons so that any potential
problems with the vehicle system may be discovered. A shut-down
caused by non-receipt of a local signal could result in a long
delay before the vehicle system resumes its route.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0004] In one embodiment, a communication system includes a
wireless communication device and a controller. The wireless
communication device is configured to be disposed onboard a vehicle
system having two or more propulsion-generating vehicles that are
mechanically interconnected with each other in order to travel
along a route together. The controller is configured to be disposed
onboard the vehicle system and operatively connected with the
wireless communication device in order to control operations of the
wireless communication device. The controller is configured to
direct the wireless communication device to switch between
operating in an off-board communication mode and operating in an
onboard communication mode. When the wireless communication device
is operating in the off-board communication mode, the wireless
communication device is configured to receive remote data signals
from a location that is disposed off-board of the vehicle system.
When the wireless communication device is operating in the onboard
communication mode, the wireless communication device is configured
to communicate local data signals between the propulsion-generating
vehicles of the vehicle system.
[0005] In another embodiment, a method includes directing a
wireless communication device configured to be disposed onboard a
vehicle system to operate in an off-board communication mode. The
vehicle system has two or more propulsion-generating vehicles that
are mechanically interconnected with each other in order to travel
along a route together. In the off-board communication mode, the
wireless communication device is configured to receive remote data
signals from a location that is disposed off-board the vehicle
system. The method also includes switching the wireless
communication device from operating in the off-board communication
mode to operating in an onboard communication mode. In the onboard
communication mode, the wireless communication device is configured
to communicate local data signals between the propulsion-generating
vehicles of the vehicle system. The method further includes
controlling movement of the vehicle system responsive to receipt of
the remote data signals and responsive to receipt of the local data
signals.
[0006] In a further embodiment, a communication system includes a
controller. The controller is configured to be disposed onboard a
vehicle system having two or more propulsion-generating vehicles
that are mechanically interconnected with each other in order to
travel along a route together. The controller is configured to
operatively connect with the propulsion-generating vehicles and a
wireless communication device. The controller directs the wireless
communication device to switch between operating in an off-board
communication mode and operating in an onboard communication mode.
In the off-board communication mode, the wireless communication
device is configured to receive remote data signals from a location
that is disposed off-board of the vehicle system. In the onboard
communication mode, the wireless communication device is configured
to communicate local data signals between the propulsion-generating
vehicles of the vehicle system.
[0007] In another embodiment, a communication system includes a
radio deployed onboard a first rail vehicle of a rail vehicle
consist and operative in a first mode of operation and a second
mode of operation. The radio is configured when operating in the
first mode of operation to communicate at least one of voice
signals or data signals between the first rail vehicle and a
location off-board the rail vehicle consist using a first frequency
bandwidth. The radio is configured when operating in the second
mode of operating to wirelessly communicate distributed power
signals from the first rail vehicle to one or more remote rail
vehicles in the rail vehicle consist using a different, second
frequency bandwidth, for at least one of augmenting operating of
other onboard wireless devices that are configured to communicate
the distributed power signals in the rail vehicle consist or for
acting in place of at least one of the other onboard wireless
devices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a communication system
including a vehicle system and an off-board signaling device in
accordance with an embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a propulsion-generating
vehicle in accordance with an embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates a time diagram for operating a wireless
communication device according to an embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a signal communication
method according to an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] One or more embodiments disclosed herein describe a
communication system and method used in conjunction with a vehicle
system having plural propulsion-generating vehicles. Two or more of
the propulsion-generating vehicles include wireless communication
devices onboard the propulsion-generating vehicles. A first
wireless communication device communicates remote data signals with
a location disposed off-board the vehicle system. The remote data
signals may be warning signals, such as signals communicated in a
positive train control (PTC) system. As such, the first wireless
communication device also is referred to as a remote wireless
communication device. A second wireless communication device
disposed onboard the propulsion-generating vehicles may be
configured to communicate local data signals between the
propulsion-generating vehicles, and is also referred to as a local
wireless communication device. The local data signals may be
signals used to control tractive efforts or braking efforts of the
propulsion-generating vehicles, such as distributed power (DP)
signals.
[0013] During operation of the vehicle system, the local wireless
communication device communicates local messages between the
propulsion-generating vehicles in the vehicle system to coordinate
operations of the propulsion-generating vehicles. The remote
wireless communication device "listens" for remote data signals
sent from off-board locations, such as a dispatch or another
vehicle system. The remote wireless communication device can be
controlled to switch from an off-board communication mode, where
the remote wireless communication device communicates remote data
signals, to an onboard communication mode, where the remote
wireless communication device communicates local data signals.
[0014] In one example, when the remote wireless communication
device is not receiving remote data signals, the remote wireless
communication device is configured to switch automatically from the
off-board communication mode to the onboard communication mode. In
the onboard mode, the remote wireless communication device may
supplement the local wireless communication device by augmenting
the bandwidth provided by the local wireless communication device
to communicate local data signals between the propulsion-generating
vehicles. The remote wireless communication device can augment the
available bandwidth by providing a separate communication data
path. However, in an embodiment, even while operating in the
onboard communication mode, the remote wireless communication
device can "listen" for remote data signals communicated from an
off-board source, and may be configured to autonomously revert back
to the off-board communication mode upon receiving a remote data
signal.
[0015] A more particular description of the inventive subject
matter briefly described above will be rendered by reference to
specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended
drawings. The inventive subject matter will be described and
explained with the understanding that these drawings depict only
typical embodiments of the inventive subject matter and are not
therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope. Throughout
the description of the embodiments, the terms "radio link," "RF
(radio frequency) link," and "RF communications" and similar terms
describe a method of communicating between two nodes in a network,
such as a lead and a remote locomotive of a distributed power
train. It should be understood that the communications between
nodes in the system is not limited to radio or RF systems or the
like and is meant to cover all techniques by which messages may be
delivered from one node to another or to plural others, including
without limitation, magnetic systems, acoustic systems, and optical
systems. Likewise, the inventive subject matter is not limited to a
described embodiment in which RF links are used between nodes and
the various components are compatible with such links
[0016] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a communication system 100
including a vehicle system 102 and an off-board signaling device
110 in accordance with an embodiment. The vehicle system 102,
traveling along a route 103, includes two or more
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 (e.g., vehicles 104A-D) that are
mechanically interconnected with each other in order to travel
along the route 103 together. Two or more of the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 may be directly connected to
form a group or consist 105, as illustrated in FIG. 1.
Additionally, one or more propulsion-generating vehicles 104 may
optionally be spaced apart from other propulsion-generating
vehicles 104, and directly connected instead to one or more
non-propulsion-generating vehicles 112 (e.g., vehicles 112A-C). The
non-propulsion-generating vehicles 112 may be configured to carry a
load for transport and are propelled along the route 103 by the
propulsion-generating vehicles. The number and arrangement of the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 and non-propulsion-generating
vehicles 112 illustrated in FIG. 1 is merely an example, as other
embodiments of the inventive subject matter may use different
vehicle 104, 112 arrangements and/or different numbers of vehicles
104 and/or 112. For example, the vehicle system 102 may include a
greater proportion of non-propulsion-generating vehicles 112 to
propulsion-generating vehicles 104.
[0017] The propulsion-generating vehicles 104 supply motive power
and braking action for the vehicle system 102. Tractive and braking
efforts for the vehicle system 102 may be coordinated and shared
among the propulsion-generating vehicles 104. In one embodiment,
one propulsion-generating vehicle 104 is designated as a lead (or
active) unit. The lead unit issues command messages to one or more
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 designated as remote units. The
command messages may be transmitted wirelessly as local data
signals from the lead unit to the remote units. The command
messages may include, for example, messages ordering the remote
units to apply, increase, or decrease tractive efforts or to apply,
increase, or decrease braking efforts. In one embodiment, the
command messages may be DP commands that coordinate control of
tractive effort and/or braking by partitioning the required motive
output among the propulsion-generating vehicles 104 in the vehicle
system 102. In transmitting the command messages, the lead unit may
operate to delegate to each of the remote units or consists a
requested motive output. For example, to slow the vehicle system
102, the lead unit may command the remote units to apply braking
efforts. The requested motive output commands may vary among the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104.
[0018] The lead unit may optionally be the front
propulsion-generating vehicle 104A in the vehicle system 102. Or,
the lead unit may be located elsewhere. In the illustrated
arrangement where the lead unit is the front propulsion-generating
vehicle 104A, the propulsion-generating vehicles 104C and 104D may
be remote units, while vehicle 104B forms a consist with the lead
unit 104A. In other embodiments the lead unit may be a
propulsion-generating vehicle 104 located away from the front of
the vehicle system 102, such as vehicles 104B, 104C, or 104D. It
should be noted that all propulsion-generating vehicles 104 may be
substantially similar in form, with each having the operative
capability to serve as the designated lead unit. For illustrative
purposes only, the lead unit will hereafter be referred to as
propulsion-generating vehicle 104A, while the remote units will be
referred to as 104C-D.
[0019] In one embodiment, the vehicle system 102 may be a train
configured to operate on rails. In this embodiment, the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 may be locomotives interspersed
among a plurality of rail cars (e.g., the non-propulsion vehicles
112) throughout the length of the train to supply motive power and
braking action for the train. In other embodiments, the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 may be other off-highway
vehicles (e.g., mining vehicles and other vehicles that are not
designed for or permitted to travel on public roadways),
automobiles (e.g., vehicles that are designed for traveling on
public roadways), marine vessels, and the like.
[0020] The propulsion-generating vehicles 104 may include two or
more wireless communication devices disposed onboard the
propulsion-generating vehicle 104, such as a remote wireless
communication device 106 and a local wireless communication device
108. The remote wireless communication devices 106 are configured
to communicate both remote data signals and local data signals.
Data signals as used herein may include audio signals such as voice
signals, video signals, digital data signals, and the like. The
remote data signals are transmitted from locations off-board the
vehicle system 102 (e.g., other vehicle systems, dispatch
facilities, wayside transponders, and the like), while the local
data signals are transmitted between propulsion-generating vehicles
104 on the vehicle system 102 itself. The remote wireless
communication devices 106 may include transceivers 118, antennas
120, and associated circuitry and software. The remote wireless
devices 106 include a bandwidth which allows the remote data
signals to be transmitted on various frequencies, which allows for
simultaneous transmission of multiple control signals. The remote
wireless communication devices 106 may be configured with long
ranges in order to receive remote data signals sent from remote
sources located relatively far away. For example, the remote
wireless communication device 106 may have a range up to 40 miles
or more. For example, the remote data signals may be transmitted at
high frequency ranges (e.g., around 3-30 MHz) and/or very high
frequency ranges (e.g., around 30-300 MHz) to allow for such
long-range transmission. In an embodiment, the remote wireless
communication device 106 may be a radio device (e.g., a 220 MHz
radio, a 12R3D radio, or the like), with the ability to receive and
send remote and local data signals sent along various frequencies
and channels.
[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the remote wireless
communication devices 106 on the propulsion-generating vehicles 104
are configured to communicate with an off-board signaling device
110 that is located remotely from the vehicle system 102. The
off-board signaling device 110 may also include a transceiver 122,
an antenna 124, and associated circuitry and software. The
off-board signaling device 110 may be located at a command
dispatch, on another vehicle system, at various route locations, or
the like, within range of the remote wireless communication devices
106. The off-board signaling device 110 communicates with the
remote wireless communication devices 106 by sending remote data
signals.
[0022] The remote data signals may contain embedded control
signals. The control signals may relate to matters that affect the
operation of the vehicle system 102. For example, the control
signals may warn an operator of the vehicle system 102 of a
changing route condition, such as a change in the speed limit, an
upcoming section of the route being occupied by another vehicle
system, an upcoming section of the route being damages, and the
like. The remote data signals communicated from the off-board
signaling device 110 may be useful along congested areas of the
route, such as in urban areas.
[0023] In an embodiment, the remote data signals may be positive
train control (PTC) signals. For example, the off-board signaling
device 110 may be a wayside transponder installed at various block
points and/or route locations that send PTC signals to the vehicle
system 102 when the vehicle system 102 is near (e.g., within a
designated range) to the wayside transponder. The PTC signals may
warn of a change in an authorized speed limit for an upcoming
section of the route. The remote wireless communication devices 106
on the propulsion-generating vehicles 104 receive the PTC signals.
In response, the propulsion-generating vehicles 104 may
autonomously adjust tractive efforts and/or braking efforts
according to the communicated speed limit. Furthermore, the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 may adjust the tractive effort
by coordinating efforts using the local wireless communication
devices 108 to communicate local data signals, as described
below.
[0024] The local data signals are communicated between
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 on the vehicle system 102. The
local data signals may contain embedded control signals to
coordinate tractive efforts and braking efforts among the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104. The control signals may be
transmitted and received in the form of voice messages or data
messages. The control signals may relate to functions local to the
vehicle system 102, such as operational control signals used to
direct the tractive and braking efforts of the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 and safety control signals used
to stop movement of the propulsion-generating vehicles 104 when one
or more safety regulations are violated. Additional local data
signals may include confirmation signals sent to acknowledge
receipt of a received control signal and status signals sent to
communicate a current status of a propulsion-generating vehicles
104 and operating parameters of machinery thereof (e.g., the actual
power outputs generated by other propulsion-generating vehicles,
lubricant and/or water temperatures, and the like). In an
embodiment, the local data signals may be DP signals sent between
lead and remote units to allocate power outputs for tractive and
braking efforts among the propulsion-generating vehicles 104 on the
vehicle system 102 when the total power output is distributed.
[0025] The local wireless communication devices 108 are disposed
onboard the propulsion-generating vehicles 104, and are configured
to communicate local data signals between the propulsion-generating
vehicles 104 in the vehicle system 102. The local wireless devices
108 each include a transceiver 114, an antenna 116, and associated
circuitry and software, which allow the local wireless devices 108
to both send and receive wireless signals, such as through RF links
and the like. The local wireless devices 108 include a bandwidth
which allows the local data signals to be transmitted on various
frequencies and channels, which allows for simultaneous
transmission of multiple control signals. For example, the remote
data signals may be transmitted at medium frequency ranges (e.g.,
around 300 kHz-3 MHz) and high frequency ranges (e.g., around 3-30
MHz) to allow for such transmission between propulsion-generating
vehicles 104 that may be spaced up to a mile or more apart along
the vehicle system 102. In an embodiment, the local wireless device
108 may be a radio device.
[0026] In an embodiment, remote and local data signals may be
transmitted simultaneously using different frequencies, channels,
or timing patterns, among others. For example, remote data signals
for off-board communications may be transmitted along a bandwidth
at higher frequencies than the local data signals are transmitted
for onboard communications. In an embodiment, the remote wireless
device 106 may be configured with a larger bandwidth than the local
wireless device 108 on a propulsion-generating vehicle 104.
Therefore, even if the bandwidth of the local wireless device 108
is congested, the remote wireless communication device 106 may be
able to communicate at frequencies beyond the range of the local
wireless device 108 (e.g., at frequencies above the upper limit of
the local wireless communication device available bandwidth).
[0027] The local wireless communication devices 108 may transmit DP
control signals among the propulsion-generating vehicles 104. For
example, the propulsion-generating vehicle 104 designated as lead
unit 104A may send a control signal to change tractive effort
provided by one or more designated remote units 104C-D. The local
wireless communication device 108 on the lead unit 104A may send a
series of such control signals to ensure the receipt by the local
wireless communication devices 108 on the remote units 104C-D. Upon
receipt, the remote units 104C-D may be configured to implement the
control signals and use the local wireless communication devices
108 to send confirmation signals back to the lead unit 104A. For
example, the control signal may have originally been sent by the
off-board signaling device 110 as a remote data signal received by
the remote wireless communication device 106 on the lead unit 104A,
and transmitted to the remote units 104C-D as a local data signal
using the local wireless communication devices 108.
[0028] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a propulsion-generating
vehicle 204 in accordance with an embodiment. The
propulsion-generating vehicle 204 may represent one or more of the
propulsion-generating vehicles 104 (shown in FIG. 1) disposed on
the vehicle system 102. The propulsion-generating vehicle 204
includes both a remote wireless communication device 206 and a
local wireless communication device 208 located onboard the vehicle
204. The remote and local wireless communication devices 206, 208
may represent the respective remote and local wireless
communication device 106, 108 (both shown in FIG. 1). The
propulsion-generating vehicle 204 also includes a controller 210
operatively and electrically connected to the remote and local
wireless communication devices 206, 208. The controller 210 may
also be operatively and electrically connected to a propulsion
system 214 on the propulsion-generating vehicle 204. Additionally,
the controller 210 may connect to one or more input and/or output
devices 216 ("Input/Output 216" in FIG. 2) onboard the vehicle
204.
[0029] The propulsion system 214 can represent one or more engines,
motors, brakes, batteries, cooling systems (e.g., radiators, fans,
etc.), and the like, that operate to generate power and propel the
vehicle system 102. For example, the propulsion system 214 supplies
motive power to propel the vehicle system 102 during a tractive
effort, and supplies braking power to slow the vehicle system 102
during a braking effort. The type and amount of power for the
propulsion system 214 to supply is controlled by the controller
210. One or more propulsion systems 214 may be provided onboard the
propulsion-generating vehicle 204.
[0030] The input and/or output devices 216 may include one or more
keyboards, throttles, switches, buttons, pedals, microphones,
speakers, displays, and the like. The input and/or output devices
216 may be used by an operator to provide input and/or monitor
output of one or more systems of the vehicle system 102. For
example, a display may show an operator a readout of a received
control signal, a sent control signal, and/or an activity of the
propulsion system 214 in response to a control signal. This
information may also be sent to a remote location, such as at a
dispatch, where the information is shown on a remote display. The
devices 216 may include a user interface configured to receive
input control signals from an operator in the propulsion-generating
vehicle 204. For example, the operator may use the user interface
to increase the velocity of the vehicle system 102. The input
command on the user interface is conveyed to the controller 210,
which carries out the command by, for example, conveying a control
signal to the propulsion system 214 to increase tractive
efforts.
[0031] The controller 210 is configured to control operations of
the vehicle system 102. A vehicle system or consist may include
only a single propulsion-generating vehicle that includes the
controller 210 as described herein. The other propulsion-generating
vehicles in the vehicle system and/or consist may be controlled
based on instructions received from the propulsion-generating
vehicle 204 that has the controller 210. Alternatively, several
propulsion-generating vehicles 204 may include the controllers 210
and assigned priorities among the controllers 210 may be used to
determine which controller 210 controls operations of the
propulsion-generating vehicles 204. For example, an overall vehicle
control system may include two or more of the controllers 210
disposed onboard different propulsion-generating vehicles 204 that
communicate with each other to coordinate operations of the
vehicles 204 as described herein.
[0032] The controller 210 performs various operations. The
controller 210 may represent a hardware and/or software system that
operates to perform one or more functions described herein. For
example, the controller 210 may include one or more computer
processor(s) or other logic-based device(s) that perform operations
based on instructions stored on a tangible and non-transitory
computer readable storage medium. Alternatively, the controller 210
may include one or more hard-wired devices that perform operations
based on hard-wired logic of the devices. The controller 210 shown
in FIG. 2 may represent the hardware that operates based on
software or hardwired instructions, the software that directs
hardware to perform the operations, or a combination thereof.
[0033] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the controller 210 may operatively
and electrically connect to wireless communication devices 206,
208, the propulsion system 212, and the input and/or output devices
216, among other systems and devices, on the propulsion-generating
vehicle 204. The controller 210 also controls the propagation of
control signals between these devices and systems. In one
embodiment, the controller 210 may receive signals from the remote
wireless communication device 206, the local wireless communication
device 208, and the input devices 216, among others. After
receiving the signals, the controller 210 then determines a proper
course of action, which could be based on a control algorithm. The
control algorithm may assign priorities to received control
signals, such that for example direct inputs from the input devices
216 take precedent over received remote control signals, which take
precedent over received local control signals. Proper courses of
action for the controller 210 in response to control signals could
include having the remote wireless communication device 206 and/or
the local wireless communication device 208 transmit data signals,
ordering the propulsion system 214 to increase or decrease tractive
or braking efforts, and/or displaying the determined course of
action on the output devices 216, among others.
[0034] For example, when a remote data signal is received by the
remote wireless communication device 206, the communication device
206 conveys the signal to the controller 210. In response, if the
remote data signal is a control signal to decrease the speed of the
vehicle system 202, the controller 210 is configured to signal the
propulsion system 214 to increase braking efforts accordingly. In
addition, the controller 210 may display the current speed of the
vehicle system 202 or other information on a display output device
216 for an operator to view. Furthermore, the controller 210 may
control the remote wireless communication device 206 to send a
confirmation signal back to the off-board location that was the
source of the remote data signal. The controller 210 may also
control the local wireless communication device 208 to send local
data signals to other propulsion-generating vehicles 204 on the
vehicle system 202 with a control signal to also increase braking
efforts.
[0035] In another example, when the controller 210 receives a local
control signal from either the remote wireless communication device
206 or the local wireless communication device 208, the controller
210 may be configured, among other actions, to change one or more
tractive or braking efforts of the propulsion system 214 on the
propulsion-generating vehicle 204 in response to the control
signal. In addition, the controller 210 may be configured to use
the wireless communication devices 206, 208 to coordinate the
tractive or braking efforts of the propulsion-generating vehicle
204 with other propulsion-generating vehicles and/or consists in
the vehicle system 202.
[0036] In one embodiment, the remote wireless communication device
206 may be configured to communicate both remote data signals and
local data signals. When the remote device 206 communicates remote
data signals transmitted between the vehicle system 202 and an
off-board location, the remote device 206 may be referred to as
operating in an off-board communication mode. When the remote
device 206 communicates local data signals between the
propulsion-generating vehicles 204 of the vehicle system 202, the
remote device 206 is operating in an onboard communication
mode.
[0037] The off and onboard communication modes may or may not be
exclusive. For example, in one embodiment, when the remote device
206 functions in the off-board mode it only communicates remote
data signals, not local signals, and when the remote device 206
functions in the onboard mode it only communicates local signals,
not remote signals until the mode switches. In other embodiments,
the modes may not be exclusive and the remote device 206 may be
configured to communicate both local and remote signals
concurrently in one or either mode. For example, the communications
may be interleaved or multiplexed, or the remote device 206 may
have multiple transceivers to allow for concurrent signal
communication.
[0038] The remote wireless communication device 206 may be
controlled to switch between off-board and onboard communication
modes. In one embodiment, when the remote wireless communication
device 206 is in the off-board communication mode, the local data
signals are transmitted between propulsion-generating vehicles 204
using the local wireless communication device 208 only. As such,
the local data signals are transmitted on frequencies within the
defined bandwidth of the local wireless communication device 208.
Switching the remote wireless communication device 206 to the
onboard mode augments the available bandwidth used to communicate
local data signals for the vehicle system 202. For example, the
remote wireless communication device 206 may have a wider bandwidth
than the local wireless communication device 208 which allows the
remote device 206 to communicate local signals at frequencies
beyond the frequency range of the local device 208, such as at
higher frequencies. As another example, the remote wireless
communication device 206 may communicate local signals at different
RF channels and/or at different timing patterns than the local
wireless communication device 208. Therefore, local data signals
may be transmitted between propulsion-generating vehicles 204 over
a "separate path" using the remote wireless communication device
206, which eases bandwidth congestion.
[0039] As a result of relieved bandwidth congestion, additional
and/or more complex local data signals may be transmitted when the
remote wireless communication device 206 operates in the onboard
mode. For example, with an increased bandwidth for local signals,
each propulsion-designated vehicle 206 designated as a remote unit
in a DP system may be able to send additional remote signals to the
lead unit. If the lead unit were to request status updates, now
each remote unit would be able to transmit its own status and also
the statuses it has received from other remote units. The result
would be less communication failure between the lead and remote
units.
[0040] The controller 210, in an embodiment, is configured to
control the switching of the remote wireless communication device
206 between the off-board and onboard communication modes. As such,
the controller 210 determines whether the remote wireless
communication device 206 communicates local data signals or remote
data signals. The determination to switch may be based on a
programmed setting in the controller 210, operator input through an
input device 216, receipt of a signal to switch, and the like, as
described herein.
[0041] When the remote wireless communication device 206 is in the
onboard communication mode, both of the wireless communication
devices 206, 208 are configured to receive and send local data
signals. The types of local data signals communicated by each of
the wireless communication devices 206, 208 may be the same or
different. For example, the remote wireless communication device
206 may transmit a first type of local data signal while the local
wireless communication device 208 transmits a second type, and each
type may be used by the controller 210 to control different
operations of the propulsion-generating vehicle 204. The controller
210 may be configured to determine which local data signals are
transmitted by each wireless communication device 206 and 208 based
on factors, such as the importance, size, and other characteristics
of the local data signals to be transmitted, and the available
bandwidth of the communication devices 206, 208 at the time.
[0042] For example, if the received local data signal contains a
safety control signal (used to stop movement of the
propulsion-generating vehicles 204 when one or more safety
regulations are violated), the controller 210 may assign both
wireless communication devices 206, 208 to communicate the safety
control signal to other propulsion-generating vehicles 204 to
enhance the propagation of the signal throughout the vehicle system
202 and lead to a quicker response time (e.g., stoppage time).
However, if the received local data signal contains an operational
control signal (e.g. increase tractive efforts), determined not to
be as important as a safety control signal, the controller 210 may
be configured to assign only the local wireless communication
device 208 to further transmit the operational control signal. The
remote wireless communication device 206 then has more bandwidth
available to transmit potential upcoming received local and/or
remote data signals.
[0043] In another example, if the received local data signal is
determined to be large or complex (e.g., greater than a threshold
data packet size or message size), the controller 210 may assign
the remote wireless communication device 206 to transmit the signal
when the remote device 206 is in the onboard communication mode
because the remote device 206 may have extra bandwidth on which to
transfer the large/complex signal. Conversely, if the received
local data signal is small or simple (e.g., no larger than the
threshold data packet size), the controller 210 may be configured
to have the local wireless communication device 208 transmit the
signal even if the remote wireless communication device 206 is in
the onboard mode, because the extra bandwidth is not necessary in
this situation.
[0044] The remote wireless communication device 206 is configured
with the operative ability to receive and send signals within a
range of up to 40 miles or more. In order to communicate at such
large ranges, the remote wireless communication device 206
transmits data signals at a relatively large signal intensity.
However, when the remote wireless communication device 206 operates
in the onboard communication mode to transmit local data signals on
the vehicle system 202, the range from the device 206 to the
intended receivers of the signals (e.g., other
propulsion-generating vehicles 204 on the same vehicle system 202)
is much shorter, on the order of a less than a mile to a couple
miles. Therefore, in an embodiment, the controller 210 is
configured to reduce the transmission signal intensity of the
remote wireless communication device 206 when the wireless device
206 switches from off-board to onboard communication mode. The
transmission signal intensity is reduced because local data signals
are generally only relevant to the vehicle system 202 itself.
Transmitting local data signals with the same intensity as remote
data signals would unnecessarily clog the RF airwaves, reducing the
available bandwidth for other vehicle systems in the remote
proximity.
[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates a timing diagram for operating the remote
wireless communication device 206 according to one embodiment. The
diagram shows modes of operation and signals received using the
remote wireless communication device 206. In an embodiment, the
remote wireless communication device 206 may switch between
operating in the off-board communication mode and the onboard
communication mode. The controller 210 may be configured to control
the remote wireless communication device 206 and switch between the
off-board and onboard communication modes.
[0046] Since both local and remote data signals may be received by
the remote wireless communication device 206 within a common time
period, the determination between operating in off-board
communication mode and onboard communication mode in such a
situation may be based on assigned priorities. The controller
thereafter uses the assigned priorities to cause the
propulsion-generating vehicle 204 to operate according to the
remote data signals or the local data signals, whichever has
priority.
[0047] In an embodiment, the remote data signals are assigned a
higher priority than the local data signals, so the remote wireless
communication device 206 operates by default in the off-board
communication mode. The remote data signals may be assigned
priority because the remote signals may relate to emergency safety
issues, such as a stalled vehicle in the route ahead, while the
messages relayed by the local signals may not generally have
similar safety implications. For example, the remote data signals
may be PTC signals sent from a remote dispatch monitoring the
statuses of many vehicle systems, so the remote signals could
implicate safety considerations beyond the local vehicle
system.
[0048] The remote wireless communication device 206 may be
controlled to send and receive signals that are assigned a lower
priority in certain prescribed situations. For example, even though
remote data signals may be assigned priority over local data
signals such that the remote wireless communication device 206
operates by default in off-board communication mode, the controller
210 may switch the remote device 206 to the onboard communication
mode in certain prescribed situations. Such prescribed situations
may include non-receipt of the priority data signals for a set
period of time, operator input, and/or receipt of a priority signal
commanding the switch, among others. Thus, in one embodiment, after
non-receipt of remote data signals for at least a designated time
period, the controller 210 may direct the remote wireless
communication device 206 to switch from the off-board communication
mode to the onboard communication mode. Once in the onboard
communication mode, the remote wireless communication device 206
supplements and augments an available bandwidth for transmitting
local data signals between propulsion-generating vehicles 204 on
the vehicle system.
[0049] In another example, the controller 210 may be configured to
direct the remote wireless communication device 206 to switch from
the off-board communication mode to the onboard mode upon
identifying an operating failure of the local wireless
communication device 208 on board the propulsion-generating vehicle
204. Therefore, if the local wireless communication device 208 is
inoperable or malfunctioning, such as due to a damaged antenna,
transceiver, or a flaw in the associated software and/or circuitry,
the remote wireless communication device 206 may act in place of
the inoperable local device 208 by communicating local data
signals, such as DP signals.
[0050] In one embodiment, even while the remote wireless
communication device 206 transmits low-priority data signals, the
remote device 206 continues to "listen" for high-priority signals.
Once a high-priority data signal is received, the remote wireless
communication device 206 may be controlled to switch communication
modes in order to transmit the newly-received high-priority data
signal. For example, continuing the example above, once the remote
wireless communication device 206 receives a remote data signal,
the remote device 206 conveys the signal to the controller 210, and
the controller 210 switches the remote device 206 back to the
off-board communication mode in order to transmit the received
remote data signal.
[0051] An example process that shows the types of signals received
by the remote wireless communication device 206 and the
communication mode of the remote device 206 over a period of time
is shown in FIG. 3. In the diagram, remote data signals take
priority over local data signals, so the default communication mode
is off-board. From time t0 to t1, only remote data signals are
received by the remote wireless communication device 206, so the
remote device is controlled to operate in the off-board mode to
transmit the remote signals. From time t1 to t2, local data signals
are also received along with remote data signals, but since the
remote data signals have an assigned priority over the local data
signals, the remote wireless communication mode continues to
operate in the off-board mode, and does not transmit the received
local data signals. From time t2 to t3, or .DELTA.T1, only local
data signals are received but the communication mode does not
switch to onboard yet because .DELTA.T1 represents a designated
time period of non-receipt of priority signals before the
controller 210 switches communication modes. Thereafter, the
communication mode switches at time t3 to the onboard mode, and
from time t3 to t4 the remote wireless communication mode augments
the available bandwidth to transfer local data signals. Finally, at
time t4 another remote data signal is received by the remote
wireless communication device 206, and the controller 210
automatically switches communication modes back to the off-board
mode in order to transfer the received remote signals according to
the assigned priority.
[0052] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of one embodiment of a method
400 of communicating signals for vehicle system 102. The method 400
is described in connection with the vehicle system 102 as shown in
FIG. 1 described herein. At 402, as the vehicle system 102 travels
along the route 103, the vehicle system 102 listens for remote
signals. For example, the remote wireless communication device 106
disposed onboard one or more of the propulsion-generating vehicles
104 listens for remote data signals being transmitted from
locations off-board the vehicle system 102, such as PTC signals
sent from a dispatch location.
[0053] At 404, a determination is made as to whether remote signals
are being received. For example, any remote signals received by the
remote wireless communication device 106 may be conveyed to the
controller 210 (shown in FIG. 2) for further action in response to
the received remote signal. The remote signal may be related to a
safety concern, so the vehicle system 102 may be configured to take
prompt action to implement any messages received via remote
signals. If the vehicle system 102 has received remote signals,
then flow of the method 400 may proceed to 406.
[0054] At 406, the vehicle system 102 acts on the received remote
signal. The controller 210 may act by performing a variety of
functions, including, for example, displaying a readout on a
display of an output device 216 (shown in FIG. 2), controlling the
propulsion system 214 (shown in FIG. 2) to increase or decrease
tractive efforts or braking efforts, operating the local wireless
communication device 108 to transmit signals (e.g., the received
remote signal and/or additional signals) to other communication
devices on the vehicle system 102, and operating the remote
wireless communication device 106 to send a response signal back to
the source of the received remote signal. After acting on the
received remote signal, flow of the method may return to 402 where
the remote wireless communication device 106 continues to listen
for remote signals.
[0055] Referring again back to 404, if the vehicle system 102 has
not received remote signals, then flow of the method 400 may
proceed to 408. At 408, since the remote wireless communication
device 106 has not recently (e.g., within the last cycle of the
method 400) received a remote signal, a determination is made as to
whether the communication device 106 should switch to communicate
local signals. If no remote signals are being received, the remote
wireless communication device 106 may be used to supplement the
local wireless communication device 108 communicating local data
signals between the propulsion-generating vehicles 104 of the
vehicle system 102. However, it may not be desirable to always
switch the remote wireless communication device 106 upon every
determination that remote signals have not been received, as such
operation could result in frequent switching which could exhaust
and/or damage the controller 210, wireless device 106, and other
associated hardware.
[0056] In an embodiment of the method 400, the controller 210 may
determine to switch the remote wireless communication device 106 to
communicate local signals after a designated time period of
non-receipt of remote signals. In this embodiment, if the amount of
time from the last received remote data signal to the present time
does not meet or exceed the designated time period, the
determination to switch is determined in the negative. The
determination whether to switch or not may also be controlled by an
operator's input, a received command signal, and the like. When the
determination to switch at 408 is negative, the flow of the method
400 returns to 402 to listen for remote signals. When the
determination to switch at 408 is positive, such as if the
designated time period of non-receipt has been met, for example,
the flow of the method proceeds to 410.
[0057] At 410, the remote wireless communication device 106 is
directed to communicate local signals. Although local signals may
have a lower assigned priority than remote signals, since no remote
signals have been received, the remote communication device 106 may
be used to supplement the local wireless communication device 108,
at least until higher priority remote signals are received. Using
the remote communication device 106 to communicate local signals
between propulsion-generating vehicles 104 disposed along the
vehicle system 102 may relieve transmission congestion and free up
bandwidth for additional signals that may reduce the number of
messages that get lost in transmission. The controller 210 may
coordinate the transmission of local signals, such as DP signals,
between the remote and local communication devices 106, 108. After
the local signals are communicated at 410 using the remote wireless
communication device 106 and/or the local wireless communication
device 108, the flow of the method 400 proceeds to 412.
[0058] At 412, the transmitted local signals are used to control
operations of the vehicle system 102. For example, the local
signals may be DP signals transmitted from a propulsion-generating
vehicle 104 acting as a lead unit to one or more remote units in
order to coordinate a total power output by allocating certain
desired power outputs to the remote unit(s). After the remote
wireless communication device 106 has communicated the local
signals at 410, and the local signals have been implemented to
control operations of the vehicle system 102 at 412, the flow of
the method 400 returns to 402 so the remote communication device
can listen for remote signals 402. If no remote signals are
received at 404, then once again the determination may be made at
408 to have the remote communication device 106 communicate local
data signals since, for example, the time period since last receipt
of remote signals will still exceed the designate time period.
[0059] In one embodiment, a communication system includes a first
wireless communication device and a controller. The first wireless
communication device is configured to be disposed onboard a vehicle
system having two or more propulsion-generating vehicles that are
mechanically interconnected with each other in order to travel
along a route together. The controller is configured to be disposed
onboard the vehicle system and operatively connected with the first
wireless communication device in order to control operations of the
first wireless communication device. The controller is configured
to direct the first wireless communication device to switch between
operating in an off-board communication mode and operating in an
onboard communication mode. When the first wireless communication
device is operating in the off-board communication mode, the first
wireless communication device is configured to receive remote data
signals from a location that is disposed off-board of the vehicle
system. When the first wireless communication device is operating
in the onboard communication mode, the first wireless communication
device is configured to communicate local data signals between the
propulsion-generating vehicles of the vehicle system.
[0060] In one aspect, the remote data signals that are communicated
from the location that is off-board of the vehicle system are
control signals. The first wireless communication device is
configured to receive the control signals and convey the control
signals to the controller. The controller is configured to change
one or more tractive efforts or braking efforts of the vehicle
system in response to the control signals.
[0061] In one aspect, the control signals are PTC signals.
[0062] In one aspect, the local data signals that are communicated
between the propulsion-generating vehicles are control signals. The
first wireless communication device is configured to receive the
control signals and convey the control signals to the controller.
The controller is configured to coordinate one or more tractive
efforts or braking efforts of the two or more propulsion-generating
vehicles according to the control signals.
[0063] In one aspect, the control signals are DP signals.
[0064] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is
configured to receive both the remote data signals and the local
data signals during a common time period. The controller is
configured to cause the propulsion-generating vehicles to operate
according to the remote data signals or the local data signals
according to priorities assigned to the remote data signals and the
local data signals.
[0065] In one aspect, the remote data signals are assigned with
higher priorities than the local data signals.
[0066] In one aspect, the controller is configured to direct the
first wireless communication device to switch from the off-board
communication mode to the onboard communication mode after
non-receipt of the remote data signals for at least a designated
time period.
[0067] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is a
radio device.
[0068] In one aspect, a second wireless communication device is
configured to communicate the local data signals between the
propulsion-generating vehicles of the vehicle system so that the
controller can coordinate one or more tractive efforts or braking
efforts of the propulsion-generating vehicles with each other. The
controller is configured to direct the first wireless communication
device to switch to the onboard communication mode to augment an
available bandwidth that is used to communicate the local data
signals for the vehicle system.
[0069] In one aspect, the local data signals include operational
control signals and safety control signals. The operational control
signals are used to direct the one or more tractive efforts or
braking efforts of the propulsion-generating vehicles. The safety
control signals are used to stop movement of the
propulsion-generating vehicles when one or more safety regulations
are violated. The second wireless communication device is
configured to communicate the operational control signals. The
controller is configured to direct both the first wireless
communication device and the second wireless communication device
to communicate the safety control signals when the first wireless
communication device is in the onboard mode of operation.
[0070] In one aspect, the controller is configured to direct the
first wireless communication device to communicate the local data
signals that are larger than a threshold data packet size when the
first wireless communication device is in the onboard mode of
operation. Meanwhile, the second wireless communication device is
configured to communicate the local data signals that are no larger
than the threshold data packet size.
[0071] In one aspect, the controller is configured to direct the
first wireless communication device to communicate the local data
signals of a first type when the first wireless communication
device is in the onboard mode of operation. Meanwhile the second
wireless communication device is configured to communicate the
local data signals of a different, second type. The first and
second types of the local data signals are used to control
respective different operations of the propulsion-generating
vehicles.
[0072] In one aspect, the vehicle system includes two or more
vehicle consists with the propulsion-generating vehicles disposed
in different ones of the vehicle consists. The controller is
configured to direct the first wireless communication device to
communicate the local data signals between the different vehicle
consists.
[0073] In one aspect, the controller is configured to reduce a
signal intensity at which the first wireless communication device
transmits the local control signals responsive to the first
wireless communication device being switched from the off-board
communication mode to the onboard communication mode.
[0074] In one embodiment, a method includes directing a first
wireless communication device configured to be disposed onboard a
vehicle system to operate in an off-board communication mode. The
vehicle system has two or more propulsion-generating vehicles that
are mechanically interconnected with each other in order to travel
along a route together. In the off-board communication mode, the
first wireless communication device is configured to receive remote
data signals from a location that is disposed off-board the vehicle
system. The method also includes switching the first wireless
communication device from operating in the off-board communication
mode to operating in an onboard communication mode. In the onboard
communication mode, the first wireless communication device is
configured to communicate local data signals between the
propulsion-generating vehicles of the vehicle system. The method
further includes controlling movement of the vehicle system
responsive to receipt of the remote data signals and responsive to
receipt of the local data signals.
[0075] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is
configured to receive both the remote data signals and the local
data signals during a common time period. Control of the
propulsion-generating vehicles of the vehicle system is responsive
to the remote data signals or the local data signals according to
priorities assigned to the remote data signals and the local data
signals.
[0076] In one aspect, the remote data signals are assigned with
higher priorities than the local data signals.
[0077] In one aspect, switching the first wireless communication
device to the onboard communication mode augments an available
bandwidth that is used to communicate the local data signals for
the vehicle system.
[0078] In one aspect, switching the first wireless communication
device from the off-board communication mode to the onboard
communication mode includes reducing a signal intensity at which
the first wireless communication device transmits the local control
signals.
[0079] In one embodiment, a communication system includes a
controller. The controller is configured to be disposed onboard a
vehicle system having two or more propulsion-generating vehicles
that are mechanically interconnected with each other in order to
travel along a route together. The controller is configured to
operatively connect with the propulsion-generating vehicles and a
first wireless communication device. The controller is configured
to direct the first wireless communication device to switch between
operating in an off-board communication mode and operating in an
onboard communication mode. In the off-board communication mode,
the first wireless communication device is configured to receive
remote data signals from a location that is disposed off-board of
the vehicle system. In the onboard communication mode, the first
wireless communication device is configured to communicate local
data signals between the propulsion-generating vehicles of the
vehicle system.
[0080] In one aspect, the remote data signals that are communicated
from the location that is off-board of the vehicle system are
control signals. The first wireless communication device is
configured to receive the control signals and convey the control
signals to the controller. The controller is configured to change
one or more tractive efforts or braking efforts of the vehicle
system in response to the control signals.
[0081] In one aspect, the control signals are PTC signals.
[0082] In one aspect, the local data signals that are communicated
between the propulsion-generating vehicles are control signals. The
first wireless communication device is configured to receive the
control signals and convey the control signals to the controller.
The controller is configured to coordinate one or more tractive
efforts or braking efforts of the two or more propulsion-generating
vehicles according to the control signals.
[0083] In one aspect, the control signals are DP signals.
[0084] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is
configured to receive both the remote data signals and the local
data signals during a common time period. The controller is
configured to cause the propulsion-generating vehicles to operate
according to the remote data signals or the local data signals
according to priorities assigned to the remote data signals and the
local data signals.
[0085] In one aspect, the remote data signals are assigned with
higher priorities than the local data signals.
[0086] In one aspect, the controller is configured to direct the
first wireless communication device to switch from the off-board
communication mode to the onboard communication mode after
non-receipt of the remote data signals for at least a designated
time period.
[0087] In one aspect, the controller is configured to direct the
first wireless communication device to switch to the onboard
communication mode to augment an available bandwidth that is used
to communicate the local data signals between the
propulsion-generating vehicles of the vehicle system.
[0088] In one embodiment, a communication system includes a first
wireless communication device configured to be disposed onboard a
vehicle system. The vehicle system has two or more
propulsion-generating vehicles that are mechanically interconnected
with each other in order to travel along a route together. The
first wireless communication device configured to switch between
operating in an off-board communication mode and operating in an
onboard communication mode. When the first wireless communication
device is operating in the off-board communication mode, the first
wireless device is configured to receive remote data signals from a
location that is disposed off-board of the vehicle system. When the
first wireless communication device is operating in the onboard
communication mode, the first wireless communication device is
configured to communicate local data signals between the
propulsion-generating vehicles of the vehicle system.
[0089] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is
configured to operatively connect to a controller disposed onboard
the vehicle system. The controller is configured to direct the
first wireless communication device to switch from the off-board
communication mode to the onboard communication mode after
non-receipt of the remote data signals for at least a designated
time period.
[0090] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is a
radio device.
[0091] In one aspect, the communication system also includes a
second wireless communication device configured to communicate the
local data signals between the propulsion-generating vehicles of
the vehicle system through an available bandwidth. The first
wireless communication device is configured to switch to the
onboard communication mode to augment the available bandwidth to
communicate the local data signals.
[0092] In one aspect, the local data signals include operational
control signals and safety control signals. The operational control
signals are used to direct the one or more tractive efforts or
braking efforts of the propulsion-generating vehicles. The safety
control signals are used to stop movement of the
propulsion-generating vehicles when one or more safety regulations
are violated. The second wireless communication device is
configured to communicate the operational control signals. Both the
first wireless communication device and the second wireless
communication device are configured to communicate the safety
control signals when the first wireless communication device is in
the onboard mode of operation.
[0093] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is
configured to communicate the local data signals that are larger
than a threshold data packet size when the first wireless
communication device is in the onboard mode of operation.
Meanwhile, the second wireless communication device is configured
to communicate the local data signals that are no larger than the
threshold data packet size.
[0094] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is
configured to communicate the local data signals of a first type
when the first wireless communication device is in the onboard mode
of operation. Meanwhile, the second wireless communication device
is configured to communicate the local data signals of a different,
second type. The first and second types of the local data signals
are used to control respective different operations of the
propulsion-generating vehicles.
[0095] In one aspect, the vehicle system includes two or more
vehicle consists with the propulsion-generating vehicles disposed
in different ones of the vehicle consists. The first wireless
communication device is configured to communicate the local data
signals between the different vehicle consists.
[0096] In one aspect, the first wireless communication device is
configured to transmit the local control signals at a reduced
signal intensity compared to the signal intensity used to transmit
remote data signals.
[0097] In one embodiment, a communication system includes a radio
deployed onboard a first rail vehicle of a rail vehicle consist and
operative in a first mode of operation and a second mode of
operation. The radio is configured when operating in the first mode
of operation to communicate at least one of voice signals or data
signals between the first rail vehicle and a location off-board the
rail vehicle consist using a first frequency bandwidth. The radio
is configured when operating in the second mode of operating to
wirelessly communicate distributed power signals from the first
rail vehicle to one or more remote rail vehicles in the rail
vehicle consist using a different, second frequency bandwidth, for
at least one of augmenting operating of other onboard wireless
devices that are configured to communicate the distributed power
signals in the rail vehicle consist or for acting in place of at
least one of the other onboard wireless devices.
[0098] In one aspect, the radio is configured to automatically
operate in the second mode of operation when the radio is not
operating in the first mode of operation to communicate the at
least one of the voice signals or the data signals from between the
first rail vehicle and the location off-board the rail vehicle
consist.
[0099] It is to be understood that the above description is
intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the
above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in
combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be
made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings
of the invention without departing from its scope. Dimensions,
types of materials, orientations of the various components, and the
number and positions of the various components described herein are
intended to define parameters of certain embodiments, and are by no
means limiting and are merely exemplary embodiments. Many other
embodiments and modifications within the spirit and scope of the
claims will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing
the above description. The scope of the invention should,
therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims,
along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are
entitled. In the appended claims, the terms "including" and "in
which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective
terms "comprising" and "wherein." Moreover, in the following
claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used
merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the
following claims are not written in means--plus-function format and
are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. .sctn.112,
sixth paragraph, unless and until such claim limitations expressly
use the phrase "means for" followed by a statement of function void
of further structure.
[0100] This written description uses examples to disclose several
embodiments of the inventive subject matter and also to enable a
person of ordinary skill in the art to practice the embodiments of
the inventive subject matter, including making and using any
devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The
patentable scope of the inventive subject matter is defined by the
claims, and may include other examples that occur to those of
ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be
within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements
that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if
they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial
differences from the literal languages of the claims.
[0101] The foregoing description of certain embodiments of the
inventive subject matter will be better understood when read in
conjunction with the appended drawings. To the extent that the
figures illustrate diagrams of the functional blocks of various
embodiments, the functional blocks are not necessarily indicative
of the division between hardware circuitry. Thus, for example, one
or more of the functional blocks (for example, processors or
memories) may be implemented in a single piece of hardware (for
example, a general purpose signal processor, microcontroller,
random access memory, hard disk, and the like). Similarly, the
programs may be stand alone programs, may be incorporated as
subroutines in an operating system, may be functions in an
installed software package, and the like. The various embodiments
are not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in
the drawings.
[0102] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular
and proceeded with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not
excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion
is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment"
of the inventive subject matter are not intended to be interpreted
as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also
incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly
stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising," "including," or
"having" an element or a plurality of elements having a particular
property may include additional such elements not having that
property.
[0103] Since certain changes may be made in the above-described
systems and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of
the inventive subject matter herein involved, it is intended that
all of the subject matter of the above description or shown in the
accompanying drawings shall be interpreted merely as examples
illustrating the inventive concept herein and shall not be
construed as limiting the inventive subject matter.
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